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The Task Force concludes that Indian River County is lacking it <br />variety of services whose presence would strengthen families. There <br />financial and humane consequences if those needs remain unmet. <br />The Task Force recommends the establishment of an independent tax - <br />district in Indian River County to fund services for children and familia <br />Further, it recommends as a model, the juvenile welfare boards of Pinel' <br />and Palm Beach counties. <br />Mrs. Hardin advised that the Task Force is recommending that <br />the Board of County Commissioners establish a taxing district to <br />fund these needs. <br />Chairman Scurlock stated he always has been opposed to <br />establishing independent taxing districts, but would consider a <br />dependent taxing district such as the South County Fire <br />Department, which allows the Board to consider the entire tax <br />bill. While he felt the Task Force's goals were very worthwhile, <br />he emphasized that the Board must balance the needs with the <br />County's ability to pay. However, the County is presently <br />subsidizing several agencies which mainly serve children. There <br />are two day-care programs in the Gifford community serving 80 <br />children at the last count. Last year we established and funded <br />a pre -natal care program through the Health Department, and we <br />also fund the Youth Guidance Program, which addresses school <br />drop -outs. In addition, we are funding a mental health program <br />this year. The Chairman pointed out that all of these agencies <br />come to the Board during budget time asking for additional funds. <br />Commissioner Eggert felt that this county is putting forth a <br />tremendous effort to help people in various ways, and noted that._ <br />we are participating to the tune of $84,000 for a primary care <br />program through the hospital; the Housing Authority is opening up <br />a rental project which will take care of quite a number of <br />families; there is money in the State budget for us to have a <br />drug rehabilitation center in the near future; and we are moving <br />closer to a county -wide recreation program which will benefit <br />many children. <br />25 KOK 8- 867 <br />